Live music in Santa Barbara, CA

A.J. Croce takes the stage for a live performance at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara.

At ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel, the open mic turns the space into a welcoming stage for music, poetry, dance, storytelling, speeches, and more. A keyboard and guitar are available to use, and bringing your own instrument is encouraged. Step up to perform or relax in the crowd and cheer others on. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, offering an easy way for travelers and locals to connect. Settle in by the fire pit with a beer and enjoy a low-pressure gathering of shared creativity and good company.

Carrillo Recreation Center hosts a blues concert presented by the Santa Barbara Blues Society featuring the Nick Moss Band with Dennis Gruenling. Chicago native Nick Moss is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who played with the Legendary Blues Band and with blues greats Jimmy “Fast Fingers” Dawkins and Jimmy Rogers before launching his own career. He has released fifteen albums, received fifteen Blues Music Award nominations, and earned wins for Band of the Year, Song of the Year, and Traditional Male Blues Artist of the Year. He previously made a surprise guest appearance with Tommy Castro for the Santa Barbara Blues Society in May 2019. Dennis Gruenling, a New Jersey native, has released several albums, has performed with the Moss Band for eight years, and won a Blues Music Award as Harmonica Player of the Year. The performance features two sets. The venue includes an outdoor patio, a large spring-loaded dance floor, and beverages. Pre-sale tickets are available online until the day before the show, after which tickets are sold only at the door. Advance ticket purchasers may enter earlier than general admission. For questions, call (805) 668-6884.

In Montecito, California, Kevin Costner & Modern West present a live band performance steeped in country rock and narrative songs shaped by the spirit of the West. The music reflects Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone style alongside broader Americana themes, building an emotional atmosphere from start to finish.

Alabama Shakes performs at Santa Barbara Bowl, joined by guest artist Tyler Ballgame. The show is presented by Goldenvoice.

Vieux Farka Touré performs with Gitkin at SOhO Restaurant and Music Club. The event features both artists on the same bill.

At Lobero Theatre, a high-energy tribute spotlights two music icons in a single evening. Shar Wils channels Tina Turner with a streak of crowd-pleasing hits, backed by a tight live band, powerful singers, and spirited dancers, capturing the fierce spirit at the heart of her legacy. Opening the show, Stewart Sher salutes Rod Stewart, delivering the swaggering rock anthems and soulful ballads that helped make him a legend.

After more than five decades in music, Collins is bidding farewell to the road with a wide-ranging final run that follows a prolific stretch featuring six new albums, a creative resurgence highlighted by Spellbound, and a poetry collection. This performance offers a final chance to experience the iconic singer-songwriter’s voice and storytelling live. Oakland Rain kicks off the performance.